Mohamed Ouahbi’s Atlas Lions defeated Canada 3-0 in the opening round of 16 match on Saturday evening in Houston, with Selim Ounahi’s brace and Rahimi’s stoppage time goal sending Morocco to the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Canada dominated the opening exchanges with energetic pressing and created several chances, but Morocco’s defensive organisation kept them at bay until the interval. The Atlas Lions then emerged with greater intensity.
Canada pressed hard throughout but ultimately lacked the quality to trouble Morocco’s goalkeeper Bono or convert their attacking opportunities. The North African side’s superior experience in knockout stages and tactical discipline proved decisive.
The Atlas Lions progressed comfortably in the end, setting up a quarter-final meeting with one of Europe’s elite sides, while Canada’s World Cup campaign ends despite their spirited display on home soil.
Morocco will face the winner of Saturday night’s Paraguay - France match in their quarter-final encounter next Thursday.
Source: AFP
-Agencies
